A THIEF stole a number of charity bags from outside homes in Ainsworth last night.

The bags were meant for the British Heart Foundation and had been left outside for collection.

Police reported that a woman was seen getting out of a silver Peugeot 206 and taking the bags at 1.35am on Friday morning. 

The offender is reported to have been in her mid-30s, of medium build, and was wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101. 

Tracey Seddon, British Heart Foundation Assistant Shop Manager, said: “We absolutely rely on the support of the local community to keep us running and without their donations we risk reducing funding for vital research into heart disease and the support we can offer heart patients.

“It’s very disappointing to hear that there have been suspected thefts of charity donations and we’d like to thank our supporters for highlighting this. We would urge people to contact the police if they suspect their items have been collected by someone other than the BHF.

“In addition to bag drops, which make a great contribution to our shops, we also offer a free collection service and every driver carries ID and can be asked at any time to produce this.

"To book a free collection for your unwanted things please call the shop on 01204 380141, or pop in to donate your pre-loved items.”